TRANSFER
YOUR WARMTH TO OTHERS
On a hot summer day,
it doesn't take long to stand in the sun to become warm. We can, in no time,
begin to radiate the heat. Walking in a cool room, we can easily transfer the
warmth to someone who has been sitting in the cold simply by taking their hand.
This is an image of the power of Jesus' Transfiguration. St. John Chrysostom says that "In the Transfiguration, Jesus revealed to the disciples that He was God dwelling with them." But, the Transfiguration is not an event locked up in the past, limited to the pages of Scripture and given exclusively to Peter, James, and John.
As we reflect on the mystery of Jesus in the
radiance of bright light and dazzling white, we begin to pick up some of the
Son's warmth. This glory revealed among us cannot be kept to ourselves. We radiate
the warmth of God's grace to a cold world. We truly can bring light into a dark
world each time we share Christ's light with others. Jesus showed Himself in
His glory, not to be put on a high throne or a pedestal, but rather, to dwell
in and amongst us for all time. He longs for us to be open to God's love and to
reciprocate that love through our ministry and service to those most in need.
Jesus was transfigured in the presence of
Peter, James, and John, while they were asleep! Upon awakening, they discovered
Jesus in glory, with Moses and Elijah. How much do we miss of God's glory and
action because we are spiritually sleeping? There are many things that can keep
our minds asleep to the things of God. An "unexamined life" can keep
us from thinking things through and facing our doubts and seeking answers to
our questions. Are we able to take on new challenges that Jesus sends us?
Troubles in our lives can be stumbling blocks until we're able to see past
them, to the glory of God. Are we spiritually awake?
Like Jesus' disciples, we, too, are called to
be witnesses of His glory. We all, with unveiled faces, behold the glory of the
Lord, are being changed into His likeness from one degree of glory to another;
for this comes from the Lord, Who is the Spirit of truth.
May we seek His presence in our hearts each
and every day!